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प्रश्न
Why do you think kings claimed divine status?
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उत्तर
Ancient kings, such as the Kushanas, claimed divine status primarily as a political strategy to legitimise their absolute power and protect their throne from rebellions. By presenting themselves as chosen agents of God or even as sons of gods (adopting titles like Devaputra), kings made their laws and commands unquestionable. Opposing or disobeying the king was framed not just as a political crime, but as a religious sin against the gods themselves. This strategy was particularly useful for rulers who came from foreign or nomadic origins, as it helped them win the respect and obedience of local populations. Furthermore, projecting a larger-than-life, holy image through massive sculptures and coins allowed kings to maintain strong psychological control and inspire awe among their subjects, even without relying constantly on military force.
